A cover letter has almost the same importance as a resume in catching a potential employer’s attention; sometimes even more than that. The goal of a cover letter is to convince the employer to read your resume which is why it is very important for a candidate to ensure that a cover letter is attractive enough to grab the attention of the hiring manager.

What does an attractive cover letter possess?

This is a question that every candidate asks himself when attempting to write one. What actually attract an employer are two things; the layout and the content. As compared to a resume layout, it must be simple enough; Following is the layout of a standard cover letter:

• Candidate’s address • Date • Name, designation, company name and address of the employer who is going to read the letter • Salutation • Opening paragraph • Main body consisting of a maximum of two paragraphs • Closing paragraph • Sign off

How to write an attractive cover letter?

The content of a cover letter will be attractive only if relevant information is evident from it. The address of both the candidate and the employer should bear no mistakes in terms of format and information. The salutation needs to be polite and specific.

The opening paragraph should possess information on how you found out about the job opening you are applying for; mention a skill or two that will help you achieve the organization’s goals if you will be hired.

The main body of the letter holds all the important information which includes your skills and qualifications to be able to do a certain job and how you may have accomplished some feat in your previous jobs. Keep this part concise but ensure that the content carries weight.

The closing paragraph will reiterate your interest in the job. Be pro-active by letting the employer know he will receive a call from you soon and also leave your number. Say goodbye in a professional manner and sign your name at the end.

Remember that an attractive cover letter is that which tells the employer that hiring this person may be the best thing he has done for the company; so don’t stop yourself from showing off a little!